As students prepare for next semester’s kickoff, they may dread their futures of rereading textbooks with energy drinks in hand. However, the greater Austin area and campus both hold events to make this annual transition less intimidating. The Daily Texan compiled a list of the most intriguing events in Austin for students as they move into their living spaces and begin classes.

Football Season (Aug. 31 at 2:30 p.m.)

Not only does fall mean football for Longhorn fans, but it also means watching the Longhorns tackle teams as SEC members for the first time. This historic change begins with their first game of the season against Colorado State at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium. Later in the season, Texas will compete with eight fellow SEC teams, including Vanderbilt and the University of Arkansas. 

aGLIFF Prism Film Festival (Aug. 21 – Aug. 25)

August marks Austin’s pride month, and related festivities will transpire throughout the next couple of weeks. The week before the beginning of the fall semester coincides with the aGLIFF Prism Film Festival, showcasing inclusive cinema from the past and present. On Aug. 21, the festival will hold the opening night of alumnus Fernando Andrés’ film,  “Rent Free.” In addition to new films, aGLIFF holds anniversary screenings for LGBTQ+ classics “Saved!” and “Brother to Brother.”

National College Colors Day (Aug. 30)

The first Friday of the new semester marks National College Colors Day, when students may don their best burnt orange attire. From game day jerseys to tumblers sporting the classic Longhorn logo, UT affiliates can choose their preferred merchandise to showcase their spirit.

ATX Comedy Hour (Aug. 26 at 8 p.m.)

For some lighthearted entertainment after the first day of school, saunter to The Ballroom at Spiderhouse’s ATX Comedy Hour for a host of laugh-makers as seen on services like HBO and Comedy Central. Tickets are $7 with an online purchase and $12 at the door, so students can decide on a whim if they’d like a night out following their first taste of the fall semester.

Austin Tattoo Invitational (Aug. 30 – Sept. 1)

Join Austin’s fourth annual tattoo convention to socialize with fellow inkheads and compete for awards in skin-canvassed artwork. With dozens of artists in attendance, peruse for potential next tattoos and relish in the ability to meet countless creative minds under one roof. 

Art Spark Texas Artists of the Year Awards (Sept. 15 at 1 p.m.)

For an event to await during the first few weeks of school, students should mark their calendars for Art Spark Texas’ Artists of the Year Awards at the Rollins Theater. Art Spark recognizes Austin creatives in fields including visual arts, performing arts and writing. While learning about Austin’s up-and-coming artists, take advantage of the venue and learn about the center’s various disability-inclusive workshops and events.